India has taken proactive steps after Singapore and Hong Kong imposed bans on certain spice products from Indian brands MDH and Everest. The bans were enforced due to the presence of ethylene oxide, a carcinogenic chemical, beyond permissible levels.
In response, India has reached out to the food safety regulators of Singapore and Hong Kong, as well as the Indian companies involved, for detailed information on the issue. The Commerce Ministry has directed Indian embassies in these countries to provide comprehensive reports, while also seeking clarification from MDH and Everest.
Officials are investigating the root cause of the bans and working on corrective measures with the exporters. Technical data, analytical reports, and information on rejected consignments have been requested from the embassies.
Additionally, India plans to hold industry consultations to address mandatory testing of ethylene oxide in spice shipments to Singapore and Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated sampling of spices from various brands nationwide to address quality concerns. The ban on MDH and Everest products highlights the importance of stringent quality control measures in India’s thriving spice industry, which is a significant contributor to global trade.